LONDON: Pakistan’s overall Test record has turned negative for the first time since 1987 after their 194-run defeat to England at Lord’s, with the number of losses now exceeding their victories.
The Lord’s defeat was Pakistan’s 473rd Test and left them with 153 wins against 154 defeats, ending a record that had remained positive for nearly four decades.
Pakistan had last recorded more Test defeats than victories in August 1987. After a draw against England at The Oval that month, Pakistan’s record stood at 39 wins and 40 defeats from 170 Tests
The latest setback came after England dominated Pakistan in both Tests of the ongoing three-match series. In the opening Test at Headingley, England secured an innings-and-103-run victory after dismissing Pakistan for 171 and 135. England had posted 409 in their first innings to establish a 238-run lead.
England then completed a 2-0 series victory at Lord’s with a 194-run win. Chasing 389 for victory, Pakistan were bowled out for 194, despite Saud Shakeel’s fighting 97. The defeat gave England an unassailable lead in the series.
Pakistan’s struggles with the bat have been a major feature of the series. They have failed to cross 171 in any innings across the first two Tests, while England’s bowlers have repeatedly exposed weaknesses in the Pakistan batting lineup.
The Lord’s defeat also extended a difficult period for Pakistan in Test cricket, as the team’s recent results have gradually eroded the positive record it had maintained for decades.
However, Pakistan still have an opportunity to avoid a series whitewash when the teams meet in the third and final Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham from September 9 to 13. England have already secured the series 2-0.
